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Free Tax Filing Military

Free tax filing military 28. Free tax filing military Miscellaneous Deductions Table of Contents What's New Introduction Useful Items - You may want to see: Deductions Subject to the 2% LimitUnreimbursed Employee Expenses (Line 21) Tax Preparation Fees (Line 22) Other Expenses (Line 23) Deductions Not Subject to the 2% LimitList of Deductions Nondeductible ExpensesList of Nondeductible Expenses What's New Standard mileage rate. Free tax filing military The 2013 rate for business use of a vehicle is 56½ cents per mile. Free tax filing military Introduction This chapter explains which expenses you can claim as miscellaneous itemized deductions on Schedule A (Form 1040). Free tax filing military You must reduce the total of most miscellaneous itemized deductions by 2% of your adjusted gross income. Free tax filing military This chapter covers the following topics. Free tax filing military Deductions subject to the 2% limit. Free tax filing military Deductions not subject to the 2% limit. Free tax filing military Expenses you cannot deduct. Free tax filing military You must keep records to verify your deductions. Free tax filing military You should keep receipts, canceled checks, substitute checks, financial account statements, and other documentary evidence. Free tax filing military For more information on recordkeeping, get Publication 552, Record- keeping for Individuals. Free tax filing military Useful Items - You may want to see: Publication 463 Travel, Entertainment, Gift, and Car Expenses 525 Taxable and Nontaxable Income 529 Miscellaneous Deductions 535 Business Expenses 587 Business Use of Your Home (Including Use by Daycare Providers) 946 How To Depreciate Property Form (and Instructions) Schedule A (Form 1040) Itemized Deductions 2106 Employee Business Expenses 2106-EZ Unreimbursed Employee Business Expenses Deductions Subject to the 2% Limit You can deduct certain expenses as miscellaneous itemized deductions on Schedule A (Form 1040). Free tax filing military You can claim the amount of expenses that is more than 2% of your adjusted gross income. Free tax filing military You figure your deduction on Schedule A by subtracting 2% of your adjusted gross income from the total amount of these expenses. Free tax filing military Your adjusted gross income is the amount on Form 1040, line 38. Free tax filing military Generally, you apply the 2% limit after you apply any other deduction limit. Free tax filing military For example, you apply the 50% (or 80%) limit on business-related meals and entertainment (discussed in chapter 26) before you apply the 2% limit. Free tax filing military Deductions subject to the 2% limit are discussed in the three categories in which you report them on Schedule A (Form 1040). Free tax filing military Unreimbursed employee expenses (line 21). Free tax filing military Tax preparation fees (line 22). Free tax filing military Other expenses (line 23). Free tax filing military Unreimbursed Employee Expenses (Line 21) Generally, you can deduct on Schedule A (Form 1040), line 21, unreimbursed employee expenses that are: Paid or incurred during your tax year, For carrying on your trade or business of being an employee, and Ordinary and necessary. Free tax filing military An expense is ordinary if it is common and accepted in your trade, business, or profession. Free tax filing military An expense is necessary if it is appropriate and helpful to your business. Free tax filing military An expense does not have to be required to be considered necessary. Free tax filing military Examples of unreimbursed employee expenses are listed next. Free tax filing military The list is followed by discussions of additional unreimbursed employee expenses. Free tax filing military Business bad debt of an employee. Free tax filing military Education that is work related. Free tax filing military (See chapter 27. Free tax filing military ) Legal fees related to your job. Free tax filing military Licenses and regulatory fees. Free tax filing military Malpractice insurance premiums. Free tax filing military Medical examinations required by an employer. Free tax filing military Occupational taxes. Free tax filing military Passport for a business trip. Free tax filing military Subscriptions to professional journals and trade magazines related to your work. Free tax filing military Travel, transportation, entertainment, and gifts related to your work. Free tax filing military (See chapter 26. Free tax filing military ) Business Liability Insurance You can deduct insurance premiums you paid for protection against personal liability for wrongful acts on the job. Free tax filing military Damages for Breach of Employment Contract If you break an employment contract, you can deduct damages you pay your former employer that are attributable to the pay you received from that employer. Free tax filing military Depreciation on Computers You can claim a depreciation deduction for a computer that you use in your work as an employee if its use is: For the convenience of your employer, and Required as a condition of your employment. Free tax filing military For more information about the rules and exceptions to the rules affecting the allowable deductions for a home computer, see Publication 529. Free tax filing military Dues to Chambers of Commerce and Professional Societies You may be able to deduct dues paid to professional organizations (such as bar associations and medical associations) and to chambers of commerce and similar organizations, if membership helps you carry out the duties of your job. Free tax filing military Similar organizations include: Boards of trade, Business leagues, Civic or public service organizations, Real estate boards, and Trade associations. Free tax filing military Lobbying and political activities. Free tax filing military You may not be able to deduct that part of your dues that is for certain lobbying and political activities. Free tax filing military See Dues used for lobbying under Nondeductible Expenses, later. Free tax filing military Educator Expenses If you were an eligible educator in 2013, you can deduct up to $250 of qualified expenses you paid in 2013 as an adjustment to gross income on Form 1040, line 23, rather than as a miscellaneous itemized deduction. Free tax filing military If you file Form 1040A, you can deduct these expenses on line 16. Free tax filing military If you and your spouse are filing jointly and both of you were eligible educators, the maximum deduction is $500. Free tax filing military However, neither spouse can deduct more than $250 of his or her qualified expenses. Free tax filing military Home Office If you use a part of your home regularly and exclusively for business purposes, you may be able to deduct a part of the operating expenses and depreciation of your home. Free tax filing military You can claim this deduction for the business use of a part of your home only if you use that part of your home regularly and exclusively: As your principal place of business for any trade or business, As a place to meet or deal with your patients, clients, or customers in the normal course of your trade or business, or In the case of a separate structure not attached to your home, in connection with your trade or business. Free tax filing military The regular and exclusive business use must be for the convenience of your employer and not just appropriate and helpful in your job. Free tax filing military See Publication 587 for more detailed information and a worksheet. Free tax filing military Job Search Expenses You can deduct certain expenses you have in looking for a new job in your present occupation, even if you do not get a new job. Free tax filing military You cannot deduct these expenses if: You are looking for a job in a new occupation, There was a substantial break between the ending of your last job and your looking for a new one, or You are looking for a job for the first time. Free tax filing military Employment and outplacement agency fees. Free tax filing military You can deduct employment and outplacement agency fees you pay in looking for a new job in your present occupation. Free tax filing military Employer pays you back. Free tax filing military If, in a later year, your employer pays you back for employment agency fees, you must include the amount you receive in your gross income up to the amount of your tax benefit in the earlier year. Free tax filing military (See Recoveries in chapter 12. Free tax filing military ) Employer pays the employment agency. Free tax filing military If your employer pays the fees directly to the employment agency and you are not responsible for them, you do not include them in your gross income. Free tax filing military Résumé. Free tax filing military You can deduct amounts you spend for preparing and mailing copies of a résumé to prospective employers if you are looking for a new job in your present occupation. Free tax filing military Travel and transportation expenses. Free tax filing military If you travel to an area and, while there, you look for a new job in your present occupation, you may be able to deduct travel expenses to and from the area. Free tax filing military You can deduct the travel expenses if the trip is primarily to look for a new job. Free tax filing military The amount of time you spend on personal activity compared to the amount of time you spend in looking for work is important in determining whether the trip is primarily personal or is primarily to look for a new job. Free tax filing military Even if you cannot deduct the travel expenses to and from an area, you can deduct the expenses of looking for a new job in your present occupation while in the area. Free tax filing military You can choose to use the standard mileage rate to figure your car expenses. Free tax filing military The 2013 rate for business use of a vehicle is 56½ cents per mile. Free tax filing military See chapter 26 for more information. Free tax filing military Licenses and Regulatory Fees You can deduct the amount you pay each year to state or local governments for licenses and regulatory fees for your trade, business, or profession. Free tax filing military Occupational Taxes You can deduct an occupational tax charged at a flat rate by a locality for the privilege of working or conducting a business in the locality. Free tax filing military If you are an employee, you can claim occupational taxes only as a miscellaneous deduction subject to the 2% limit; you cannot claim them as a deduction for taxes elsewhere on your return. Free tax filing military Repayment of Income Aid Payment An “income aid payment” is one that is received under an employer's plan to aid employees who lose their jobs because of lack of work. Free tax filing military If you repay a lump-sum income aid payment that you received and included in income in an earlier year, you can deduct the repayment. Free tax filing military Research Expenses of a College Professor If you are a college professor, you can deduct research expenses, including travel expenses, for teaching, lecturing, or writing and publishing on subjects that relate directly to your teaching duties. Free tax filing military You must have undertaken the research as a means of carrying out the duties expected of a professor and without expectation of profit apart from salary. Free tax filing military However, you cannot deduct the cost of travel as a form of education. Free tax filing military Tools Used in Your Work Generally, you can deduct amounts you spend for tools used in your work if the tools wear out and are thrown away within 1 year from the date of purchase. Free tax filing military You can depreciate the cost of tools that have a useful life substantially beyond the tax year. Free tax filing military For more information about depreciation, see Publication 946. Free tax filing military Union Dues and Expenses You can deduct dues and initiation fees you pay for union membership. Free tax filing military You can also deduct assessments for benefit payments to unemployed union members. Free tax filing military However, you cannot deduct the part of the assessments or contributions that provides funds for the payment of sick, accident, or death benefits. Free tax filing military Also, you cannot deduct contributions to a pension fund, even if the union requires you to make the contributions. Free tax filing military You may not be able to deduct amounts you pay to the union that are related to certain lobbying and political activities. Free tax filing military See Lobbying Expenses under Nondeductible Expenses, later. Free tax filing military Work Clothes and Uniforms You can deduct the cost and upkeep of work clothes if the following two requirements are met. Free tax filing military You must wear them as a condition of your employment. Free tax filing military The clothes are not suitable for everyday wear. Free tax filing military It is not enough that you wear distinctive clothing. Free tax filing military The clothing must be specifically required by your employer. Free tax filing military Nor is it enough that you do not, in fact, wear your work clothes away from work. Free tax filing military The clothing must not be suitable for taking the place of your regular clothing. Free tax filing military Examples of workers who may be able to deduct the cost and upkeep of work clothes are: delivery workers, firefighters, health care workers, law enforcement officers, letter carriers, professional athletes, and transportation workers (air, rail, bus, etc. Free tax filing military ). Free tax filing military Musicians and entertainers can deduct the cost of theatrical clothing and accessories that are not suitable for everyday wear. Free tax filing military However, work clothing consisting of white cap, white shirt or white jacket, white bib overalls, and standard work shoes, which a painter is required by his union to wear on the job, is not distinctive in character or in the nature of a uniform. Free tax filing military Similarly, the costs of buying and maintaining blue work clothes worn by a welder at the request of a foreman are not deductible. Free tax filing military Protective clothing. Free tax filing military You can deduct the cost of protective clothing required in your work, such as safety shoes or boots, safety glasses, hard hats, and work gloves. Free tax filing military Examples of workers who may be required to wear safety items are: carpenters, cement workers, chemical workers, electricians, fishing boat crew members, machinists, oil field workers, pipe fitters, steamfitters, and truck drivers. Free tax filing military Military uniforms. Free tax filing military You generally cannot deduct the cost of your uniforms if you are on full-time active duty in the armed forces. Free tax filing military However, if you are an armed forces reservist, you can deduct the unreimbursed cost of your uniform if military regulations restrict you from wearing it except while on duty as a reservist. Free tax filing military In figuring the deduction, you must reduce the cost by any nontaxable allowance you receive for these expenses. Free tax filing military If local military rules do not allow you to wear fatigue uniforms when you are off duty, you can deduct the amount by which the cost of buying and keeping up these uniforms is more than the uniform allowance you receive. Free tax filing military You can deduct the cost of your uniforms if you are a civilian faculty or staff member of a military school. Free tax filing military Tax Preparation Fees (Line 22) You can usually deduct tax preparation fees in the year you pay them. Free tax filing military Thus, on your 2013 return, you can deduct fees paid in 2013 for preparing your 2012 return. Free tax filing military These fees include the cost of tax preparation software programs and tax publications. Free tax filing military They also include any fee you paid for electronic filing of your return. Free tax filing military Other Expenses (Line 23) You can deduct certain other expenses as miscellaneous itemized deductions subject to the 2% limit. Free tax filing military On Schedule A (Form 1040), line 23, you can deduct expenses that you pay: To produce or collect income that must be included in your gross income, To manage, conserve, or maintain property held for producing such income, or To determine, contest, pay, or claim a refund of any tax. Free tax filing military You can deduct expenses you pay for the purposes in (1) and (2) above only if they are reasonably and closely related to these purposes. Free tax filing military Some of these other expenses are explained in the following discussions. Free tax filing military If the expenses you pay produce income that is only partially taxable, see Tax-Exempt Income Expenses , later, under Nondeductible Expenses. Free tax filing military Appraisal Fees You can deduct appraisal fees if you pay them to figure a casualty loss or the fair market value of donated property. Free tax filing military Casualty and Theft Losses You can deduct a casualty or theft loss as a miscellaneous itemized deduction subject to the 2% limit if you used the damaged or stolen property in performing services as an employee. Free tax filing military First report the loss in Section B of Form 4684, Casualties and Thefts. Free tax filing military You may also have to include the loss on Form 4797, Sales of Business Property, if you are otherwise required to file that form. Free tax filing military To figure your deduction, add all casualty or theft losses from this type of property included on Form 4684, lines 32 and 38b, or Form 4797, line 18a. Free tax filing military For other casualty and theft losses, see chapter 25. Free tax filing military Clerical Help and Office Rent You can deduct office expenses, such as rent and clerical help, that you have in connection with your investments and collecting the taxable income on them. Free tax filing military Credit or Debit Card Convenience Fees You can deduct the convenience fee charged by the card processor for paying your income tax (including estimated tax payments) by credit or debit card. Free tax filing military The fees are deductible in the year paid. Free tax filing military Depreciation on Home Computer You can deduct depreciation on your home computer if you use it to produce income (for example, to manage your investments that produce taxable income). Free tax filing military You generally must depreciate the computer using the straight line method over the Alternative Depreciation System (ADS) recovery period. Free tax filing military But if you work as an employee and also use the computer in that work, see Publication 946. Free tax filing military Excess Deductions of an Estate If an estate's total deductions in its last tax year are more than its gross income for that year, the beneficiaries succeeding to the estate's property can deduct the excess. Free tax filing military Do not include deductions for the estate's personal exemption and charitable contributions when figuring the estate's total deductions. Free tax filing military The beneficiaries can claim the deduction only for the tax year in which, or with which, the estate terminates, whether the year of termination is a normal year or a short tax year. Free tax filing military For more information, see Termination of Estate in Publication 559, Survivors, Executors, and Administrators. Free tax filing military Fees to Collect Interest and Dividends You can deduct fees you pay to a broker, bank, trustee, or similar agent to collect your taxable bond interest or dividends on shares of stock. Free tax filing military But you cannot deduct a fee you pay to a broker to buy investment property, such as stocks or bonds. Free tax filing military You must add the fee to the cost of the property. Free tax filing military You cannot deduct the fee you pay to a broker to sell securities. Free tax filing military You can use the fee only to figure gain or loss from the sale. Free tax filing military See the Instructions for Form 8949 for information on how to report the fee. Free tax filing military Hobby Expenses You can generally deduct hobby expenses, but only up to the amount of hobby income. Free tax filing military A hobby is not a business because it is not carried on to make a profit. Free tax filing military See Activity not for profit in chapter 12 under Other Income. Free tax filing military Indirect Deductions of Pass-Through Entities Pass-through entities include partnerships, S corporations, and mutual funds that are not publicly offered. Free tax filing military Deductions of pass-through entities are passed through to the partners or shareholders. Free tax filing military The partners or shareholders can deduct their share of passed-through deductions for investment expenses as miscellaneous itemized deductions subject to the 2% limit. Free tax filing military Example. Free tax filing military You are a member of an investment club that is formed solely to invest in securities. Free tax filing military The club is treated as a partnership. Free tax filing military The partnership's income is solely from taxable dividends, interest, and gains from sales of securities. Free tax filing military In this case, you can deduct your share of the partnership's operating expenses as miscellaneous itemized deductions subject to the 2% limit. Free tax filing military However, if the investment club partnership has investments that also produce nontaxable income, you cannot deduct your share of the partnership's expenses that produce the nontaxable income. Free tax filing military Publicly offered mutual funds. Free tax filing military Publicly offered mutual funds do not pass deductions for investment expenses through to shareholders. Free tax filing military A mutual fund is “publicly offered” if it is: Continuously offered pursuant to a public offering, Regularly traded on an established securities market, or Held by or for at least 500 persons at all times during the tax year. Free tax filing military A publicly offered mutual fund will send you a Form 1099-DIV, Dividends and Distributions, or a substitute form, showing the net amount of dividend income (gross dividends minus investment expenses). Free tax filing military This net figure is the amount you report on your return as income. Free tax filing military You cannot further deduct investment expenses related to publicly offered mutual funds because they are already included as part of the net income amount. Free tax filing military Information returns. Free tax filing military You should receive information returns from pass-through entities. Free tax filing military Partnerships and S corporations. Free tax filing military These entities issue Schedule K-1, which lists the items and amounts you must report and identifies the tax return schedules and lines to use. Free tax filing military Nonpublicly offered mutual funds. Free tax filing military These funds will send you a Form 1099-DIV, Dividends and Distributions, or a substitute form, showing your share of gross income and investment expenses. Free tax filing military You can claim the expenses only as a miscellaneous itemized deduction subject to the 2% limit. Free tax filing military Investment Fees and Expenses You can deduct investment fees, custodial fees, trust administration fees, and other expenses you paid for managing your investments that produce taxable income. Free tax filing military Legal Expenses You can usually deduct legal expenses that you incur in attempting to produce or collect taxable income or that you pay in connection with the determination, collection, or refund of any tax. Free tax filing military You can also deduct legal expenses that are: Related to either doing or keeping your job, such as those you paid to defend yourself against criminal charges arising out of your trade or business, For tax advice related to a divorce, if the bill specifies how much is for tax advice and it is determined in a reasonable way, or To collect taxable alimony. Free tax filing military You can deduct expenses of resolving tax issues relating to profit or loss from business (Schedule C or C-EZ), rentals or royalties (Schedule E), or farm income and expenses (Schedule F), on the appropriate schedule. Free tax filing military You deduct expenses of resolving nonbusiness tax issues on Schedule A (Form 1040). Free tax filing military See Tax Preparation Fees , earlier. Free tax filing military Loss on Deposits For information on whether, and if so, how, you may deduct a loss on your deposit in a qualified financial institution, see Loss on Deposits in chapter 25. Free tax filing military Repayments of Income If you had to repay an amount that you included in income in an earlier year, you may be able to deduct the amount you repaid. Free tax filing military If the amount you had to repay was ordinary income of $3,000 or less, the deduction is subject to the 2% limit. Free tax filing military If it was more than $3,000, see Repayments Under Claim of Right under Deductions Not Subject to the 2% Limit, later. Free tax filing military Repayments of Social Security Benefits For information on how to deduct your repayments of certain social security benefits, see Repayments More Than Gross Benefits in chapter 11. Free tax filing military Safe Deposit Box Rent You can deduct safe deposit box rent if you use the box to store taxable income-producing stocks, bonds, or investment-related papers and documents. Free tax filing military You cannot deduct the rent if you use the box only for jewelry, other personal items, or tax-exempt securities. Free tax filing military Service Charges on Dividend Reinvestment Plans You can deduct service charges you pay as a subscriber in a dividend reinvestment plan. Free tax filing military These service charges include payments for: Holding shares acquired through a plan, Collecting and reinvesting cash dividends, and Keeping individual records and providing detailed statements of accounts. Free tax filing military Trustee's Administrative Fees for IRA Trustee's administrative fees that are billed separately and paid by you in connection with your individual retirement arrangement (IRA) are deductible (if they are ordinary and necessary) as a miscellaneous itemized deduction subject to the 2% limit. Free tax filing military For more information about IRAs, see chapter 17. Free tax filing military Deductions Not Subject to the 2% Limit You can deduct the items listed below as miscellaneous itemized deductions. Free tax filing military They are not subject to the 2% limit. Free tax filing military Report these items on Schedule A (Form 1040), line 28. Free tax filing military List of Deductions Each of the following items is discussed in detail after the list (except where indicated). Free tax filing military Amortizable premium on taxable bonds. Free tax filing military Casualty and theft losses from income- producing property. Free tax filing military Federal estate tax on income in respect of a decedent. Free tax filing military Gambling losses up to the amount of gambling winnings. Free tax filing military Impairment-related work expenses of persons with disabilities. Free tax filing military Loss from other activities from Schedule K-1 (Form 1065-B), box 2. Free tax filing military Losses from Ponzi-type investment schemes. Free tax filing military See Losses from Ponzi-type investment schemes under Theft in chapter 25. Free tax filing military Repayments of more than $3,000 under a claim of right. Free tax filing military Unrecovered investment in an annuity. Free tax filing military Amortizable Premium on Taxable Bonds In general, if the amount you pay for a bond is greater than its stated principal amount, the excess is bond premium. Free tax filing military You can elect to amortize the premium on taxable bonds. Free tax filing military The amortization of the premium is generally an offset to interest income on the bond rather than a separate deduction item. Free tax filing military Part of the premium on some bonds may be a miscellaneous deduction not subject to the 2% limit. Free tax filing military For more information, see Amortizable Premium on Taxable Bonds in Publication 529, and Bond Premium Amortization in chapter 3 of Publication 550, Investment Income and Expenses. Free tax filing military Casualty and Theft Losses of Income-Producing Property You can deduct a casualty or theft loss as a miscellaneous itemized deduction not subject to the 2% limit if the damaged or stolen property was income-producing property (property held for investment, such as stocks, notes, bonds, gold, silver, vacant lots, and works of art). Free tax filing military First, report the loss in Form 4684, Section B. Free tax filing military You may also have to include the loss on Form 4797, Sales of Business Property if you are otherwise required to file that form. Free tax filing military To figure your deduction, add all casualty or theft losses from this type of property included on Form 4684, lines 32 and 38b, or Form 4797, line 18a. Free tax filing military For more information on casualty and theft losses, see chapter 25. Free tax filing military Federal Estate Tax on Income in Respect of a Decedent You can deduct the federal estate tax attributable to income in respect of a decedent that you as a beneficiary include in your gross income. Free tax filing military Income in respect of the decedent is gross income that the decedent would have received had death not occurred and that was not properly includible in the decedent's final income tax return. Free tax filing military See Publication 559 for more information. Free tax filing military Gambling Losses Up to the Amount of Gambling Winnings You must report the full amount of your gambling winnings for the year on Form 1040, line 21. Free tax filing military You deduct your gambling losses for the year on Schedule A (Form 1040), line 28. Free tax filing military You cannot deduct gambling losses that are more than your winnings. Free tax filing military You cannot reduce your gambling winnings by your gambling losses and report the difference. Free tax filing military You must report the full amount of your winnings as income and claim your losses (up to the amount of winnings) as an itemized deduction. Free tax filing military Therefore, your records should show your winnings separately from your losses. Free tax filing military Diary of winnings and losses. Free tax filing military You must keep an accurate diary or similar record of your losses and winnings. Free tax filing military Your diary should contain at least the following information. Free tax filing military The date and type of your specific wager or wagering activity. Free tax filing military The name and address or location of the gambling establishment. Free tax filing military The names of other persons present with you at the gambling establishment. Free tax filing military The amount(s) you won or lost. Free tax filing military See Publication 529 for more information. Free tax filing military Impairment-Related Work Expenses If you have a physical or mental disability that limits your being employed, or substantially limits one or more of your major life activities, such as performing manual tasks, walking, speaking, breathing, learning, and working, you can deduct your impairment-related work expenses. Free tax filing military Impairment-related work expenses are ordinary and necessary business expenses for attendant care services at your place of work and for other expenses in connection with your place of work that are necessary for you to be able to work. Free tax filing military Self-employed. Free tax filing military If you are self-employed, enter your impairment-related work expenses on the appropriate form (Schedule C, C-EZ, E, or F) used to report your business income and expenses. Free tax filing military Loss From Other Activities From Schedule K-1 (Form 1065-B), Box 2 If the amount reported in Schedule K-1 (Form 1065-B), box 2, is a loss, report it on Schedule A (Form 1040), line 28. Free tax filing military It is not subject to the passive activity limitations. Free tax filing military Repayments Under Claim of Right If you had to repay more than $3,000 that you included in your income in an earlier year because at the time you thought you had an unrestricted right to it, you may be able to deduct the amount you repaid or take a credit against your tax. Free tax filing military See Repayments in chapter 12 for more information. Free tax filing military Unrecovered Investment in Annuity A retiree who contributed to the cost of an annuity can exclude from income a part of each payment received as a tax-free return of the retiree's investment. Free tax filing military If the retiree dies before the entire investment is recovered tax free, any unrecovered investment can be deducted on the retiree's final income tax return. Free tax filing military See chapter 10 for more information about the tax treatment of pensions and annuities. Free tax filing military Nondeductible Expenses Examples of nondeductible expenses are listed next. Free tax filing military The list is followed by discussions of additional nondeductible expenses. Free tax filing military List of Nondeductible Expenses Broker's commissions that you paid in connection with your IRA or other investment property. Free tax filing military Burial or funeral expenses, including the cost of a cemetery lot. Free tax filing military Capital expenses. Free tax filing military Fees and licenses, such as car licenses, marriage licenses, and dog tags. Free tax filing military Hobby losses, but see Hobby Expenses , earlier. Free tax filing military Home repairs, insurance, and rent. Free tax filing military Illegal bribes and kickbacks. Free tax filing military See Bribes and kickbacks in chapter 11 of Publication 535. Free tax filing military Losses from the sale of your home, furniture, personal car, etc. Free tax filing military Personal disability insurance premiums. Free tax filing military Personal, living, or family expenses. Free tax filing military The value of wages never received or lost vacation time. Free tax filing military Adoption Expenses You cannot deduct the expenses of adopting a child, but you may be able to take a credit for those expenses. Free tax filing military See chapter 37. Free tax filing military Campaign Expenses You cannot deduct campaign expenses of a candidate for any office, even if the candidate is running for reelection to the office. Free tax filing military These include qualification and registration fees for primary elections. Free tax filing military Legal fees. Free tax filing military You cannot deduct legal fees paid to defend charges that arise from participation in a political campaign. Free tax filing military Check-Writing Fees on Personal Account If you have a personal checking account, you cannot deduct fees charged by the bank for the privilege of writing checks, even if the account pays interest. Free tax filing military Club Dues Generally, you cannot deduct the cost of membership in any club organized for business, pleasure, recreation, or other social purpose. Free tax filing military This includes business, social, athletic, luncheon, sporting, airline, hotel, golf, and country clubs. Free tax filing military You cannot deduct dues paid to an organization if one of its main purposes is to: Conduct entertainment activities for members or their guests, or Provide members or their guests with access to entertainment facilities. Free tax filing military Dues paid to airline, hotel, and luncheon clubs are not deductible. Free tax filing military Commuting Expenses You cannot deduct commuting expenses (the cost of transportation between your home and your main or regular place of work). Free tax filing military If you haul tools, instruments, or other items, in your car to and from work, you can deduct only the additional cost of hauling the items such as the rent on a trailer to carry the items. Free tax filing military Fines or Penalties You cannot deduct fines or penalties you pay to a governmental unit for violating a law. Free tax filing military This includes an amount paid in settlement of your actual or potential liability for a fine or penalty (civil or criminal). Free tax filing military Fines or penalties include parking tickets, tax penalties, and penalties deducted from teachers' paychecks after an illegal strike. Free tax filing military Health Spa Expenses You cannot deduct health spa expenses, even if there is a job requirement to stay in excellent physical condition, such as might be required of a law enforcement officer. Free tax filing military Home Security System You cannot deduct the cost of a home security system as a miscellaneous deduction. Free tax filing military However, you may be able to claim a deduction for a home security system as a business expense if you have a home office. Free tax filing military See Home Office under Unreimbursed Employee Expenses, earlier, and Security System under Deducting Expenses in Publication 587. Free tax filing military Investment-Related Seminars You cannot deduct any expenses for attending a convention, seminar, or similar meeting for investment purposes. Free tax filing military Life Insurance Premiums You cannot deduct premiums you pay on your life insurance. Free tax filing military You may be able to deduct, as alimony, premiums you pay on life insurance policies assigned to your former spouse. Free tax filing military See chapter 18 for information on alimony. Free tax filing military Lobbying Expenses You generally cannot deduct amounts paid or incurred for lobbying expenses. Free tax filing military These include expenses to: Influence legislation, Participate or intervene in any political campaign for, or against, any candidate for public office, Attempt to influence the general public, or segments of the public, about elections, legislative matters, or referendums, or Communicate directly with covered executive branch officials in any attempt to influence the official actions or positions of those officials. Free tax filing military Lobbying expenses also include any amounts paid or incurred for research, preparation, planning, or coordination of any of these activities. Free tax filing military Dues used for lobbying. Free tax filing military If a tax-exempt organization notifies you that part of the dues or other amounts you pay to the organization are used to pay nondeductible lobbying expenses, you cannot deduct that part. Free tax filing military See Lobbying Expenses in Publication 529 for information on exceptions. Free tax filing military Lost or Mislaid Cash or Property You cannot deduct a loss based on the mere disappearance of money or property. Free tax filing military However, an accidental loss or disappearance of property can qualify as a casualty if it results from an identifiable event that is sudden, unexpected, or unusual. Free tax filing military See chapter 25. Free tax filing military Example. Free tax filing military A car door is accidentally slammed on your hand, breaking the setting of your diamond ring. Free tax filing military The diamond falls from the ring and is never found. Free tax filing military The loss of the diamond is a casualty. Free tax filing military Lunches with Co-workers You cannot deduct the expenses of lunches with co-workers, except while traveling away from home on business. Free tax filing military See chapter 26 for information on deductible expenses while traveling away from home. Free tax filing military Meals While Working Late You cannot deduct the cost of meals while working late. Free tax filing military However, you may be able to claim a deduction if the cost of meals is a deductible entertainment expense, or if you are traveling away from home. Free tax filing military See chapter 26 for information on deductible entertainment expenses and expenses while traveling away from home. Free tax filing military Personal Legal Expenses You cannot deduct personal legal expenses such as those for the following. Free tax filing military Custody of children. Free tax filing military Breach of promise to marry suit. Free tax filing military Civil or criminal charges resulting from a personal relationship. Free tax filing military Damages for personal injury, except for certain unlawful discrimination and whistleblower claims. Free tax filing military Preparation of a title (or defense or perfection of a title). Free tax filing military Preparation of a will. Free tax filing military Property claims or property settlement in a divorce. Free tax filing military You cannot deduct these expenses even if a result of the legal proceeding is the loss of income-producing property. Free tax filing military Political Contributions You cannot deduct contributions made to a political candidate, a campaign committee, or a newsletter fund. Free tax filing military Advertisements in convention bulletins and admissions to dinners or programs that benefit a political party or political candidate are not deductible. Free tax filing military Professional Accreditation Fees You cannot deduct professional accreditation fees such as the following. Free tax filing military Accounting certificate fees paid for the initial right to practice accounting. Free tax filing military Bar exam fees and incidental expenses in securing initial admission to the bar. Free tax filing military Medical and dental license fees paid to get initial licensing. Free tax filing military Professional Reputation You cannot deduct expenses of radio and TV appearances to increase your personal prestige or establish your professional reputation. Free tax filing military Relief Fund Contributions You cannot deduct contributions paid to a private plan that pays benefits to any covered employee who cannot work because of any injury or illness not related to the job. Free tax filing military Residential Telephone Service You cannot deduct any charge (including taxes) for basic local telephone service for the first telephone line to your residence, even if it is used in a trade or business. Free tax filing military Stockholders' Meetings You cannot deduct transportation and other expenses you pay to attend stockholders' meetings of companies in which you own stock but have no other interest. Free tax filing military You cannot deduct these expenses even if you are attending the meeting to get information that would be useful in making further investments. Free tax filing military Tax-Exempt Income Expenses You cannot deduct expenses to produce tax-exempt income. Free tax filing military You cannot deduct interest on a debt incurred or continued to buy or carry tax-exempt securities. Free tax filing military If you have expenses to produce both taxable and tax-exempt income, but you cannot identify the expenses that produce each type of income, you must divide the expenses based on the amount of each type of income to determine the amount that you can deduct. Free tax filing military Example. Free tax filing military During the year, you received taxable interest of $4,800 and tax-exempt interest of $1,200. Free tax filing military In earning this income, you had total expenses of $500 during the year. Free tax filing military You cannot identify the amount of each expense item that is for each income item. Free tax filing military Therefore, 80% ($4,800/$6,000) of the expense is for the taxable interest and 20% ($1,200/$6,000) is for the tax-exempt interest. Free tax filing military You can deduct, subject to the 2% limit, expenses of $400 (80% of $500). Free tax filing military Travel Expenses for Another Individual You generally cannot deduct travel expenses you pay or incur for a spouse, dependent, or other individual who accompanies you (or your employee) on business or personal travel unless the spouse, dependent, or other individual is an employee of the taxpayer, the travel is for a bona fide business purpose, and such expenses would otherwise be deductible by the spouse, dependent, or other individual. Free tax filing military See chapter 26 for more information on deductible travel expenses. Free tax filing military Voluntary Unemployment Benefit Fund Contributions You cannot deduct voluntary unemployment benefit fund contributions you make to a union fund or a private fund. Free tax filing military However, you can deduct contributions as taxes if state law requires you to make them to a state unemployment fund that covers you for the loss of wages from unemployment caused by business conditions. Free tax filing military Wristwatches You cannot deduct the cost of a wristwatch, even if there is a job requirement that you know the correct time to properly perform your duties. Free tax filing military Prev Up Next Home More Online Publications
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Prepared by the office of Indian Tribal Governments, ITG News provides information to include

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The office of Indian Tribal Governments provides a single point of contact for assistance and service. The overall goal of this office is to use partnership opportunities with Indian tribal governments, tribal associations, and other federal agencies to respectfully and cooperatively meet the needs of both the Indian tribal governments and the federal government and to simplify the tax administration process.

The Free Tax Filing Military

Free tax filing military 12. Free tax filing military How To Get Tax Help Table of Contents Whether it's help with a tax issue, preparing your tax return or a need for a free publication or form, get the help you need the way you want it: online, use a smart phone, call or walk in to an IRS office or volunteer site near you. Free tax filing military Free help with your tax return. Free tax filing military You can get free help preparing your return nationwide from IRS-certified volunteers. Free tax filing military The Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program helps low-to-moderate income, elderly, people with disabilities, and limited English proficient taxpayers. Free tax filing military The Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE) program helps taxpayers age 60 and older with their tax returns. Free tax filing military Most VITA and TCE sites offer free electronic filing and all volunteers will let you know about credits and deductions you may be entitled to claim. Free tax filing military In addition, some VITA and TCE sites provide taxpayers the opportunity to prepare their own return with help from an IRS-certified volunteer. Free tax filing military To find the nearest VITA or TCE site, you can use the VITA Locator Tool on IRS. Free tax filing military gov, download the IRS2Go app, or call 1-800-906-9887. Free tax filing military As part of the TCE program, AARP offers the Tax-Aide counseling program. Free tax filing military To find the nearest AARP Tax-Aide site, visit AARP's website at www. Free tax filing military aarp. Free tax filing military org/money/taxaide or call 1-888-227-7669. Free tax filing military For more information on these programs, go to IRS. Free tax filing military gov and enter “VITA” in the search box. Free tax filing military Internet. Free tax filing military IRS. Free tax filing military gov and IRS2Go are ready when you are —24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Free tax filing military Download the free IRS2Go app from the iTunes app store or from Google Play. Free tax filing military Use it to check your refund status, order transcripts of your tax returns or tax account, watch the IRS YouTube channel, get IRS news as soon as it's released to the public, subscribe to filing season updates or daily tax tips, and follow the IRS Twitter news feed, @IRSnews, to get the latest federal tax news, including information about tax law changes and important IRS programs. Free tax filing military Check the status of your 2013 refund with the Where's My Refund? application on IRS. Free tax filing military gov or download the IRS2Go app and select the Refund Status option. Free tax filing military The IRS issues more than 9 out of 10 refunds in less than 21 days. Free tax filing military Using these applications, you can start checking on the status of your return within 24 hours after we receive your e-filed return or 4 weeks after you mail a paper return. Free tax filing military You will also be given a personalized refund date as soon as the IRS processes your tax return and approves your refund. Free tax filing military The IRS updates Where's My Refund? every 24 hours, usually overnight, so you only need to check once a day. Free tax filing military Use the Interactive Tax Assistant (ITA) to research your tax questions. Free tax filing military No need to wait on the phone or stand in line. Free tax filing military The ITA is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and provides you with a variety of tax information related to general filing topics, deductions, credits, and income. Free tax filing military When you reach the response screen, you can print the entire interview and the final response for your records. Free tax filing military New subject areas are added on a regular basis. Free tax filing military Answers not provided through ITA may be found in Tax Trails, one of the Tax Topics on IRS. Free tax filing military gov which contain general individual and business tax information or by searching the IRS Tax Map, which includes an international subject index. Free tax filing military You can use the IRS Tax Map, to search publications and instructions by topic or keyword. Free tax filing military The IRS Tax Map integrates forms and publications into one research tool and provides single-point access to tax law information by subject. Free tax filing military When the user searches the IRS Tax Map, they will be provided with links to related content in existing IRS publications, forms and instructions, questions and answers, and Tax Topics. Free tax filing military Coming this filing season, you can immediately view and print for free all 5 types of individual federal tax transcripts (tax returns, tax account, record of account, wage and income statement, and certification of non-filing) using Get Transcript. Free tax filing military You can also ask the IRS to mail a return or an account transcript to you. Free tax filing military Only the mail option is available by choosing the Tax Records option on the IRS2Go app by selecting Mail Transcript on IRS. Free tax filing military gov or by calling 1-800-908-9946. Free tax filing military Tax return and tax account transcripts are generally available for the current year and the past three years. Free tax filing military Determine if you are eligible for the EITC and estimate the amount of the credit with the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) Assistant. Free tax filing military Visit Understanding Your IRS Notice or Letter to get answers to questions about a notice or letter you received from the IRS. Free tax filing military If you received the First Time Homebuyer Credit, you can use the First Time Homebuyer Credit Account Look-up tool for information on your repayments and account balance. Free tax filing military Check the status of your amended return using Where's My Amended Return? Go to IRS. Free tax filing military gov and enter Where's My Amended Return? in the search box. Free tax filing military You can generally expect your amended return to be processed up to 12 weeks from the date we receive it. Free tax filing military It can take up to 3 weeks from the date you mailed it to show up in our system. Free tax filing military Make a payment using one of several safe and convenient electronic payment options available on IRS. Free tax filing military gov. Free tax filing military Select the Payment tab on the front page of IRS. Free tax filing military gov for more information. Free tax filing military Determine if you are eligible and apply for an online payment agreement, if you owe more tax than you can pay today. Free tax filing military Figure your income tax withholding with the IRS Withholding Calculator on IRS. Free tax filing military gov. Free tax filing military Use it if you've had too much or too little withheld, your personal situation has changed, you're starting a new job or you just want to see if you're having the right amount withheld. Free tax filing military Determine if you might be subject to the Alternative Minimum Tax by using the Alternative Minimum Tax Assistant on IRS. Free tax filing military gov. Free tax filing military Request an Electronic Filing PIN by going to IRS. Free tax filing military gov and entering Electronic Filing PIN in the search box. Free tax filing military Download forms, instructions and publications, including accessible versions for people with disabilities. Free tax filing military Locate the nearest Taxpayer Assistance Center (TAC) using the Office Locator tool on IRS. Free tax filing military gov, or choose the Contact Us option on the IRS2Go app and search Local Offices. Free tax filing military An employee can answer questions about your tax account or help you set up a payment plan. Free tax filing military Before you visit, check the Office Locator on IRS. Free tax filing military gov, or Local Offices under Contact Us on IRS2Go to confirm the address, phone number, days and hours of operation, and the services provided. Free tax filing military If you have a special need, such as a disability, you can request an appointment. Free tax filing military Call the local number listed in the Office Locator, or look in the phone book under United States Government, Internal Revenue Service. Free tax filing military Apply for an Employer Identification Number (EIN). Free tax filing military Go to IRS. Free tax filing military gov and enter Apply for an EIN in the search box. Free tax filing military Read the Internal Revenue Code, regulations, or other official guidance. Free tax filing military Read Internal Revenue Bulletins. Free tax filing military Sign up to receive local and national tax news and more by email. Free tax filing military Just click on “subscriptions” above the search box on IRS. Free tax filing military gov and choose from a variety of options. Free tax filing military Phone. Free tax filing military You can call the IRS, or you can carry it in your pocket with the IRS2Go app on your smart phone or tablet. Free tax filing military Download the free IRS2Go app from the iTunes app store or from Google Play. Free tax filing military Call to locate the nearest volunteer help site, 1-800-906-9887 or you can use the VITA Locator Tool on IRS. Free tax filing military gov, or download the IRS2Go app. Free tax filing military Low-to-moderate income, elderly, people with disabilities, and limited English proficient taxpayers can get free help with their tax return from the nationwide Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program. Free tax filing military The Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE) program helps taxpayers age 60 and older with their tax returns. Free tax filing military Most VITA and TCE sites offer free electronic filing. Free tax filing military Some VITA and TCE sites provide IRS-certified volunteers who can help prepare your tax return. Free tax filing military Through the TCE program, AARP offers the Tax-Aide counseling program; call 1-888-227-7669 to find the nearest Tax-Aide location. Free tax filing military Call the automated Where's My Refund? information hotline to check the status of your 2013 refund 24 hours a day, 7 days a week at 1-800-829-1954. Free tax filing military If you e-file, you can start checking on the status of your return within 24 hours after the IRS receives your tax return or 4 weeks after you've mailed a paper return. Free tax filing military The IRS issues more than 9 out of 10 refunds in less than 21 days. Free tax filing military Where's My Refund? will give you a personalized refund date as soon as the IRS processes your tax return and approves your refund. Free tax filing military Before you call this automated hotline, have your 2013 tax return handy so you can enter your social security number, your filing status, and the exact whole dollar amount of your refund. Free tax filing military The IRS updates Where's My Refund? every 24 hours, usually overnight, so you only need to check once a day. Free tax filing military Note, the above information is for our automated hotline. Free tax filing military Our live phone and walk-in assistors can research the status of your refund only if it's been 21 days or more since you filed electronically or more than 6 weeks since you mailed your paper return. Free tax filing military Call the Amended Return Hotline, 1-866-464-2050, to check the status of your amended return. Free tax filing military You can generally expect your amended return to be processed up to 12 weeks from the date we receive it. Free tax filing military It can take up to 3 weeks from the date you mailed it to show up in our system. Free tax filing military Call 1-800-TAX-FORM (1-800-829-3676) to order current-year forms, instructions, publications, and prior-year forms and instructions (limited to 5 years). Free tax filing military You should receive your order within 10 business days. Free tax filing military Call TeleTax, 1-800-829-4477, to listen to pre-recorded messages covering general and business tax information. Free tax filing military If, between January and April 15, you still have questions about the Form 1040, 1040A, or 1040EZ (like filing requirements, dependents, credits, Schedule D, pensions and IRAs or self-employment taxes), call 1-800-829-1040. Free tax filing military Call using TTY/TDD equipment, 1-800-829-4059 to ask tax questions or order forms and publications. Free tax filing military The TTY/TDD telephone number is for people who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability. Free tax filing military These individuals can also contact the IRS through relay services such as the Federal Relay Service. Free tax filing military Walk-in. Free tax filing military You can find a selection of forms, publications and services — in-person. Free tax filing military Products. Free tax filing military You can walk in to some post offices, libraries, and IRS offices to pick up certain forms, instructions, and publications. Free tax filing military Some IRS offices, libraries, and city and county government offices have a collection of products available to photocopy from reproducible proofs. Free tax filing military Services. Free tax filing military You can walk in to your local TAC for face-to-face tax help. Free tax filing military An employee can answer questions about your tax account or help you set up a payment plan. Free tax filing military Before visiting, use the Office Locator tool on IRS. Free tax filing military gov, or choose the Contact Us option on the IRS2Go app and search Local Offices for days and hours of operation, and services provided. Free tax filing military Mail. Free tax filing military You can send your order for forms, instructions, and publications to the address below. Free tax filing military You should receive a response within 10 business days after your request is received. Free tax filing military Internal Revenue Service 1201 N. Free tax filing military Mitsubishi Motorway Bloomington, IL 61705-6613 The Taxpayer Advocate Service Is Here to Help You. Free tax filing military The Taxpayer Advocate Service (TAS) is your voice at the IRS. Free tax filing military Our job is to ensure that every taxpayer is treated fairly and that you know and understand your rights. Free tax filing military What can TAS do for you? We can offer you free help with IRS problems that you can't resolve on your own. Free tax filing military We know this process can be confusing, but the worst thing you can do is nothing at all! TAS can help if you can't resolve your tax problem and: Your problem is causing financial difficulties for you, your family, or your business. Free tax filing military You face (or your business is facing) an immediate threat of adverse action. Free tax filing military You've tried repeatedly to contact the IRS but no one has responded, or the IRS hasn't responded by the date promised. Free tax filing military If you qualify for our help, you'll be assigned to one advocate who'll be with you at every turn and will do everything possible to resolve your problem. Free tax filing military Here's why we can help: TAS is an independent organization within the IRS. Free tax filing military Our advocates know how to work with the IRS. Free tax filing military Our services are free and tailored to meet your needs. Free tax filing military We have offices in every state, the District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico. Free tax filing military How can you reach us? If you think TAS can help you, call your local advocate, whose number is in your local directory and at www. Free tax filing military irs. Free tax filing military gov/Advocate, or call us toll-free at 1-877-777-4778. Free tax filing military How else does TAS help taxpayers? TAS also works to resolve large-scale, systemic problems that affect many taxpayers. Free tax filing military If you know of one of these broad issues, please report it to us through our Systemic Advocacy Management System. Free tax filing military Low Income Taxpayer Clinics. Free tax filing military Low Income Taxpayer Clinics (LITCs) serve individuals whose income is below a certain level and need to resolve tax problems such as audits, appeals, and tax collection disputes. Free tax filing military Some clinics can provide information about taxpayer rights and responsibilities in different languages for individuals who speak English as a second language. Free tax filing military Visit www. Free tax filing military irs. Free tax filing military gov/Advocate or see IRS Publication 4134, Low Income Taxpayer Clinic List. Free tax filing military Prev Up Next Home More Online Publications